Field Journal
Stories from the field
Trip reports, herping nights, ethics and photography lessons from the UAE and Lebanon.
Birding in Ras Al Khaimah: A One-Day Guided Trip That Delivered the Unexpected
A single day of guided birding in Ras Al Khaimah delivered over 30 species, including Osprey, Crab Plover, and Oystercatcher—proof that UAE wildlife photography thrives beyond reserves and artificial wetlands.
Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse – A Rare Glimpse into UAE Desert Life
Lichtenstein’s Sandgrouse are elusive desert birds rarely seen in action — but during an evening in the UAE, I observed their coordinated drinking ritual, timed perfectly between sunset and the arrival of predators. Even more impressive: how females transport water in their feathers to their waiting chicks. This intimate look into their behavior reveals the silent complexity of life in the desert.
Inside the Mind of a Bird Photographer: What It Really Takes
Bird photography is far more than snapping pictures — it’s a balance of art, science, and patience. This blog dives deep into the qualities that shape a true bird photographer, from field challenges to the joy of capturing that perfect shot.
Facts About Pharaoh Eagle-Owl Part 02
The Pharaoh Eagle-Owl isn’t always where you expect it. Some days it’s perched in plain sight; other days, it vanishes into the desert’s silence. Discover the reasons behind its unpredictable presence — from shifting temperatures and prey movements to its instinct for survival in the wild landscapes of the UAE.
Facts About Pharaoh Eagle-Owl Part 01
Before the breeding season begins, Pharaoh Eagle-Owls in the UAE engage in fascinating pre-nesting behavior. From echoing calls at dusk to food sharing and close roosting, these early signs reveal how devoted and territorial this desert species truly is.
UAE Wildlife Photography Trips: Shorebirds, Vipers, and Desert Discoveries
In early September, Ras Al Khaimah revealed its hidden treasures — from elusive shorebirds like the Eurasian Oystercatcher and Crab Plover to desert vipers and the rare False Cobra. By focusing on lesser-visited habitats close to home, I aim to document all of the UAE’s wildlife — birds, mammals, and herpetofauna — while offering guided trips that bring others into the heart of these wild encounters.

